The weight of it all: Saranac students make therapeutic blankets for children

Friday

Feb 8, 2013 at 12:01 AM

Weighted blankets between 4 and 10 pounds

Karin Armbrusterkarin.armbruster@sentinel-standard.com

Six weighted blankets designed for therapeutic purposes have been made by students at Saranac Jr./Sr. High School for students at Saranac Elementary School.

Teacher Patti Patton said the item, which is placed upon the legs, lap or shoulders, is generally helpful for those with sensory issues to become more calm or find a more restful sleep. Often, students with autism benefit from using the blankets because the effects of the pressure help the students' brains shift toward learning. In most cases, the blankets should weigh about 10 percent of the person's total weight, she said.

"It went so fast and they did such a good job," Patton said of the 12 students who helped make the project a success.

She said the idea came up when final exams at the high school opened a block of free time for some middle school students who had a teacher that also teaches high school classes. Patton then got in touch with Becky Beals, who is the occupational therapist for Saranac Elementary, and was notified of students who could benefit from the blankets. Once size and weight was determined, the students went to work.

Made with fleece and poly pellets, the blankets were created for less than $200. The class also used measuring cups and a scale to make sure they had a weight between 4 and 10 pounds.The project was funded by The Compagner Memorial Grant and Scholarship Fund, which is given by a local Saranac grant committee.

The students who participated in the project also expressed how happy they were to take part.

"I like making the blankets because I know that the kids with special needs needed them," said seventh-grade student Kristina Harper.

Other students agreed.

"I felt nice when I was working on these blankets and I just really hope that we can do this again," said Charlie Nalley, 13.

More students said they enjoyed working on the task and are pleased to know they will be making other children happy by providing them with the blankets.

Patton said she would like to spend additional time completing similar projects in the future and added she believes the students can receive a sense of pride from participating.

"I think the good feeling of helping others will stick with them," Patton added.